ADHD, also known as Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, formerly referred to as ADD, or attention deficit disorder. It is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders of children with symptoms of an ongoing pattern of inattentiveness. Generally, the condition commences in childhood. Later can be diagnosed in both children and adults. They can be impulsive or hyperactive. Furthermore, they might have trouble managing time; have a hard time communicating, being organized, setting goals, and more.
ADHD is often compared with Autism and considered similar. But the fact is they are different conditions. Autism is more related to developmental disorders affecting language skills, behavior, social interactions, and the ability to learn. While ADHD is more about how the brain grows and develops. Autism patients find a hard time to focus on things they dislike, whereas ADHD patients try to avoid things they’ll need to pay more concentration.
ADHD Symptoms
Many of the symptoms discussed in this article are common for any child to experience. Thus, a doctor needs to evaluate your child using several criteria. Based on which he/she concludes. There remains a wide range of behavior associated with ADHD such as not completing tasks like homework, fidgeting, and squirming when seated, and daydreaming.
They might also face:
- Impulsiveness
- Frequent mood swings
- Poor time management skills
- Problems focusing on a task
- Trouble multitasking
- Restlessness
- Poor planning and disorganized
- Low frustration tolerance
- Hot temper
- Trouble coping with stress
- Outbursts of anger at inappropriate times
These symptoms also affect a child’s self-esteem and performance. However, the condition is not curable. ADHD symptoms can be treated by following behavioral therapies, medication, or both.
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Prescription drugs can be extremely effective. Though they address symptoms for a short duration, and effects may fade after prolonged use in most cases. Moreover, ADHD Medications can cause unwanted side effects.
“Additionally, the Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with ADHD (MTA), the largest ADHD treatment study in existence, found that stimulants may have less efficacy over time. Their data supported the short-term efficacy of stimulants in ADHD, but recent follow-up after several years showed that patients taking stimulant medications had the same level of symptoms as those who had never been medicated.”
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3036556/
Naturopathic Medicine is an alternative treatment for ADHD. Licensed naturopathic doctors (NDs) look into the details and behavior of the child and understand how each person is experiencing their symptoms. NDs excel at treating ADHD with certain evidence-based treatments, including behavioral therapies, clinical nutrition, and botanical medicine.
Naturopathic doctors spend time with patients to evaluate the diet pattern, lifestyle, and provide a high level of emotional and psychological support. NDs identify areas of dysfunction and plan a treatment depending on the analysis report. The treatment procedure is selected examining both the physical and emotional state of the patient.
Naturopathic Treatments for ADHD Patients
Diet and lifestyle changes
The exact cause of ADHD is unclear. But Nutritional deficiencies can affect the behavior. Thus, a healthy diet is really important for proper brain function. An ADHD treatment plan may involve the consumption of a nutrition plan rich in protein and vitamins, whole grains, seafood, nuts, and legumes that can help control symptoms. As well as the elimination of certain foods and additives such as Artificial Sweeteners, Artificial Colorants and Preservatives contributing to hyperactivity and distraction. Additionally, changing your sleeping habits and sustained exercise can have a real and positive effect on managing ADHD symptoms. Yoga and meditation, Dietary Changes can benefit children with ADHD.
Supplementation
NDs evaluate and address nutritional Deficiencies in magnesium, iron, and vitamin-D with proper supplementation as these are associated with ADHD. Furthermore, the use of supplemental fish oil, supplementation with probiotics can also help reduce symptoms of ADHD.
Botanical medicine
Botanical or herbal medicines can control anxiety, address restlessness, boost concentration associated with ADHD. NDs utilize beneficial botanical medicines such as green oat extract for attention and concentration, Ginseng to stimulate brain function and increase energy, herbal tea containing chamomile, spearmint, lemongrass, and other herbs to encourage rest and sleep, Pycnogenol (plant extract) to normalize antioxidant levels in children with ADHD.
Behavioral medicine
NDs conduct behavioral therapy to work on resolving specific problematic behaviors. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy used to treat a wide range of issues. To help ADHD overcome difficulties in everyday executive functions including time management, organizing, and more the approach is exercised. NDs refer patients to licensed therapists for these treatments as needed.
ADHD is a complex disorder affected by various genetic, neurological, nutritional, and environmental factors. Following naturopathic medicine strategies can offer ADHD patients many benefits.